Lake Darner

The Lake Darner is a large dragonfly species, with mature adults often reaching impressive body lengths of up to 3 inches. Its sheer size makes it one of the more intimidating and noticeably large insects in its northern North American habitats. Its long, broad wingspan further adds to its commanding physical presence.

As its common name suggests, the Lake Darner is highly associated with open lake waters across northern North America. Unlike some dragonfly species that stick strictly to small streams or marshy ponds, this species is notable for its extensive hunting flights over large, open bodies of water. They often patrol relentlessly along the shorelines looking for insect prey.

The Lake Darner is highly unusual because, while it hunts during the day, it is also famously known to be active during the evening and into the dusk hours. This large species is noted for undertaking extensive feeding flights as the sun sets, swarming with other dragonflies over lakes to catch insects. This crepuscular behavior sets it apart from many other North American dragonflies.

In addition to its large size, the Lake Darner features distinctive blue or green stripes on its dark thorax, depending on temperature and the individual's maturity. Its face is marked with a prominent black line horizontally across the front. Observing its exceptionally large size alongside its habit of cruising over open lakes is usually the easiest way to identify it.